Brake Controller Shows Overload Error After Replacing Brakes on 5th Wheel Trailer
Published 10/31/2014
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Question:
Replaced brakes on both sides of trailer but controller signals overload. All electric sources have been checked for ground issues.
asked by: Wayne P
Expert Reply:
There is some testing you can do to determine if the problem is the brake controller or somewhere else. In the truck cab you will need to sever the blue wire several inches from the back of the controller. Then use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the end of the blue wire coming out of the controller. It should only have power when you apply the manual override (or brake pedal on some controllers). If it shows power at idle, then there is something wrong with the controller and it will need to be replaced.
If it tests fine, then reconnect the blue wire. Then move on to the truck side trailer connector. Many times, dirt or corrosion can cause a short in a trailer connector. Make sure the truck and the trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside and out.
You can test the brake output pin and it should only show power with the manual override. If it shows power any other time, then there is a short somewhere between the connector and the brake controller you will need to track down.
If the truck side checks out fine, then it could be the wiring to the brake magnets or the magnets themselves. Inspect the power wires to the magnets and look for pinched, frayed, or damaged wires and fix as needed. Make sure the ground wires are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.
Since the brakes are new the magnets will not be worn out, but it is possible that something is wrong inside the magnets. To further test the magnets, you can follow the help article I have linked. I have also included some help articles on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- LH
- 6000 lbs
- Brake Assembly
- Manual Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- Dexter
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